Tuesday’s historic delivery triggers Phase 1a of vaccinations
The most anticipated UPS delivery in perhaps the history of Wake County arrived Tuesday at the Sunnybrook Public Health building: a deceptively small box of 975 vials of COVID-19 vaccine from Pfizer.
Following guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services, these first vials were dispensed to Wake County vaccine team members. Emergency responders will begin getting vaccinated today, as the county starts the Phase 1A rollout of COVID-19 vaccine. Because the supply of vaccine could remain limited for some time, early doses will go to those at highest risk of exposure.
“Our vaccination team was so excited Tuesday morning to see the UPS employee walk in with that single box,” said Dr. Jason Wittes, Wake County’s Pharmacy Director. “This is a historic week for our community. It represents the beginning of what will eventually stop the spread of COVID-19.”
Wake County Board of Commissioners Chair Matt Calabria said our Public Health Division’s enthusiasm about this initial vaccine delivery has been incredible.
“It reflects how eager we are to protect our frontline workers, including our paramedics and the healthcare workers in our clinics,” he said. “We’re committed to keeping Wake County residents updated on the vaccination process, so they’ll know when it’s their turn to roll up their sleeves and get the shot in 2021.”
While we hope Tuesday’s delivery marks the beginning of regular weekly shipments from the state, there is no guarantee of a steady supply. Eventually there will be enough vaccine available for all Wake County residents who want it, but that process is expected to take months. Until that time, residents should not visit Wake County Public Health buildings or COVID-19 testing sites to be vaccinated. You can follow updates on availability, by visiting our vaccine website.
Even as the vaccine begins to be distributed locally, it’s critical for everyone to stick with the 3W safety measures - wear a mask, wash your hands, and wait 6 feet apart from others, especially with the holidays ahead.
Staying Updated
Visit Wake County’s multilingual COVID-19 webpage, which has a set of frequently asked questions to educate residents, as well as contact information to ask specific questions.
Also look for important information on Wake County’s Facebook, Twitter and Instagram accounts.
